Palmanova: Fortress City with a Nine-Pointed Star-Shaped Plan
Accommodation in Palmanova
Palmanova is a fortress city with a nine-pointed star-shaped plan. Three concentric rings of fortifications define the complex and give the town its unusual geometric form. The star shape is part of the city planning itself and is not merely a motif on a single building. The form combines the historic character of the fortress with the urban structure. This is why the complex as a whole is important when sightseeing: the plan, rings of fortifications and urban structure are directly interconnected in Palmanova and shape the urban space together.
Fortress Architecture and Piazza Grande
Palmanova’s defence system was built in three phases. The first ring of fortifications was constructed from 1593 to 1620, the second from 1665 to 1683 and the third from 1806 to 1809. The three construction phases thus span several centuries. The dates assign the three rings to different construction periods; the fortress complex was therefore not built in a single step.
At the centre is the hexagonal Piazza Grande. Formerly known as Piazza d’Armi, it was the parade ground of the garrisons. Piazza Grande provides a fixed spatial reference point within the star-shaped complex. The Museum of the First World War and the Fortress of Palmanova preserves documents, weapons, uniforms and memorabilia relating to the city’s history. This extends from its foundation in 1593 to the present day. The collection thus addresses both the military equipment and the documentary and personal aspects of the city’s history.
Circular Trail and Multimedia Perspectives
The Anello delle Fortificazioni in Palmanova is suitable for hiking, cycling, mountain biking, horse riding and Nordic walking. The Italian name refers to its connection with the fortifications. The mode of transport can therefore determine the focus of the day without the Anello losing its fortress theme. The Anello combines the various modes of transport with the same spatial theme: Palmanova’s fortifications.
The FVG7 Friuli Cycleway (C700) ends in Piazza Grande in Palmanova. Its endpoint is therefore located at the central square of the fortress city. The multimedia experience Ascensore Virtuale provides an aerial view of the star-shaped city extending into outer space. In the Sala Video Multimediale, visitors can see a 3D video mapping of Palmanova Fortress and virtual narrators. The two offerings have different focuses.
Openings and Regional Connections
The Gallerie di Contromina have three forms of access: they are open at weekends, during special openings or to groups by prior reservation. For the Gallerie di Contromina, weekend dates, special openings and group visits with reservations are therefore distinct options. For regional connections, Palmanova has the Udine–Cervignano del Friuli railway line. The line is designated by the place names Udine and Cervignano del Friuli.
The Castello di Saciletto and Castello Alimonda castles are also located in the vicinity of Palmanova.
Further Regional Pages
Further pages on places in Friuli-Venezia Giulia: Raibl, Cavazzo Carnico, San Giorgio Di Nogaro, Premariacco, Résiatal, Passariano and Coseano.
For the overarching travel overview: Udine.
More About the Destination
Relevant information for planning your trip:
_07.jpg){kind=link}